Margali masam is one of the auspicious Tamil months. During the month, temples are opened in the early morning and special pujas are performed. A popular vratham called ‘Tiruvembaavai vratham’ | Pavai Nombu is observed during the month.

Arudra Darisanam, the day on which the Thiruvaadirai star in Tamil falls, is the most auspicious day in Margali masam. In Kerala, this festival is observed as Thiruvadira. During Thiruvadira festival, a special recipe called Thiruvadira Kali is offered to Lord Shiva. On Mukkodi Ekadasi day, Lord Vishnu is offered “Sorgavasal Thirappu”.

Margazhi Month is a popular ritual in almost all Vishnu Temples, Shiva Temples, Shakti Temples and Murugan Temples all around Tamil Nadu. Srirangam Ranganathar Temple and Chidambaram Natarajar Temple are the famous temples to visit during Margali Masam.

Margazhi or Margali masam is a corresponding month to Margashirsha or Margashira masam & Poush Month (Pushya masam) of other Hindu calendars. It also corresponds to the Bengali month of Agrahayan & Poush mash. According to Malayalam calendar, Margazhi Masam coincides with Dhanur Masam.